Sunday’s Premier League clash at the King Power Stadium pits two teams in contrasting situations. Leicester City find themselves battling to escape the relegation zone, plagued by defensive struggles and a run of poor results. Meanwhile, Manchester City arrive desperate to overturn their worst run of form in recent history.
For Leicester, the challenge is daunting. The Foxes have conceded a league-high 40 goals this season and have suffered three consecutive defeats, including a heavy 3-0 loss to Wolves. Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side are in urgent need of a turnaround to avoid sinking further into the relegation mire.
City, on the other hand, are uncharacteristically winless in 12 of their last 13 matches across all competitions. Pep Guardiola’s side, once invincible, has struggled to replicate their dominant form.
As they aim to climb back into contention for European places, this match represents a critical opportunity for both teams to reset their respective campaigns.
Leicester Recent Form
Leicester’s Premier League campaign has taken a worrying turn under Ruud van Nistelrooy. Despite an encouraging start with a 3-1 win over West Ham, they’ve since suffered three heavy defeats, including a 3-1 loss at Anfield and a 3-0 defeat against Wolves.
Their defence has been particularly vulnerable, conceding a league-high 40 goals. As they sit perilously close to the relegation zone, the Foxes are desperate to reverse their fortunes.
Injury and Team News
Leicester are sweating on the fitness of Jamie Vardy, who missed the Liverpool clash due to a knock.
Key players like Issahaku Fatawu, Mads Hermansen, and Ricardo Pereira are sidelined, while Harry Winks is expected to anchor the midfield following his return.
Last Leicester Lineup
Here is how Leicester lined up against Liverpool:
Manchester City Recent Form
Manchester City are enduring one of their worst slumps under Pep Guardiola, having secured just one win in their last 13 matches across all competitions.
Despite dominating their recent meetings with Leicester, City’s struggles have seen them drop out of the European places, intensifying the pressure ahead of this fixture to find some sort of form.
Injury and Team News
City are dealing with several absentees, including Ruben Dias, Jack Grealish, John Stones, and Oscar Bobb.
Rodri remains out for the season, while Kevin De Bruyne is set for a potential recall. Erling Haaland, despite his recent struggles in front of goal, will lead the line.
Last Man City Lineup
Here is how Manchester City lined up against Everton:
Leicester vs Man City - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Michael Oliver.
Assistants: Stuart Burt, Neil Davies.
Fourth official: Bobby Madley.
VAR: Paul Tierney.
Assistant VAR: Sian Massey-Ellis.
Leicester Player to Watch
Harry Winks will be pivotal to Leicester in the middle of the park. His creativity and ability to unlock defences will be essential if the Foxes are to trouble City.
Man City Player to Watch
Kevin De Bruyne’s potential return is a major boost for City. His vision and playmaking skills could be the key to breaking Leicester’s lines.
Prediction
While Leicester are struggling defensively, Manchester City’s poor form levels the playing field. Expect a tightly contested game, but City’s superior quality might just edge it.
Predicted score: Leicester 1-2 Manchester City
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Goal in both halves - Manchester City’s matches often see goals spread across the 90 minutes.
Tip 2
Both teams to score - Leicester’s defensive frailties and City’s lapses make this a strong possibility.
Tip 3
Erling Haaland to score - Despite a recent drought, the Norwegian is due a goal and thrives in high-pressure games.
